The iconic sled from Orson Welles’s groundbreaking film, Citizen Kane, has made history by selling for a staggering $14.75 million (£11 million) at auction. This sale has propelled the prop to become the second most valuable piece of movie memorabilia ever sold, following the record-breaking auction of a pair of ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz last December.
The sled, famously inscribed with the word “Rosebud,” played a pivotal role in the film as a symbol of the protagonist’s lost innocence and unfulfilled desires. Its sale marks a significant moment in cinematic history, showcasing the enduring impact of classic films on popular culture.
According to reports from **The Guardian** and **Artnet News**, the sled was donated by a director who received it during a studio clearout, adding a layer of intrigue to its provenance. The auction of this iconic prop has captured the attention of film enthusiasts and collectors worldwide, sparking a renewed interest in the legacy of Citizen Kane and its cultural significance.
Experts in the art and film industry have hailed the sale of the Rosebud sled as a testament to the enduring power of cinema to captivate audiences across generations. The prop’s symbolic value, coupled with its association with one of the greatest films in cinematic history, has cemented its status as a coveted piece of memorabilia for collectors and film aficionados alike.
Public response to the auction has been mixed, with some celebrating the preservation of cinematic history through the acquisition of such iconic props, while others have raised questions about the commodification of movie memorabilia and its impact on the cultural heritage of classic films.
The sale of the Rosebud sled also raises broader societal and ethical implications regarding the preservation and commercialization of cultural artifacts. As movie memorabilia continues to command exorbitant prices in the auction market, concerns about the accessibility and ownership of cultural heritage have come to the forefront of discussions within the arts and culture community.
In conclusion, the auction of the Rosebud sled from Citizen Kane represents a significant moment in the intersection of art, film, and popular culture. Its record-breaking sale underscores the enduring appeal of classic cinema and the value placed on iconic props that have become indelible symbols of cinematic history.
**References:**
– The Guardian: [Rosebud sled from Citizen Kane sells at auction for £11m](https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/jul/17/rosebud-sled-from-citizen-kane-sells-at-auction-for-11m)
– Artnet News: [Last Known Rosebud Sled From ‘Citizen Kane’ Just Made Auction History](https://news.artnet.com/art-world/citizen-kane-rosebud-sled-auction-2657602)
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